Blue Oat Grass (Helictotrichon sempervirens) is a beautiful ornamental grass that is well-suited for the landscapes of Aurora, Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area. This grass is an evergreen plant that produces blue-gray foliage, which adds a touch of color and texture to any landscape design.

 

Here are some advantages of using Blue Oat Grass in a landscape in Aurora and Greater Toronto Area:

​

1. Drought Tolerance: Blue Oat Grass is a drought-tolerant plant and can withstand long periods of drought. This makes it an ideal plant for the hot and dry summers of Aurora and Greater Toronto Area.

2. Low Maintenance: Blue Oat Grass requires minimal maintenance. It can survive in a range of soil types and does not need fertilization. The plant grows slowly, so there is no need for frequent pruning.

3. Attractive Appearance: The blue-gray foliage of Blue Oat Grass provides an attractive contrast to the greenery of other plants in the landscape. This grass is perfect for creating a focal point in a garden bed or as a border plant.

4. Versatile Plant: Blue Oat Grass is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of landscape designs. It is suitable for rock gardens, borders, and containers.

 

Watering Blue Oat Grass:

​

Although Blue Oat Grass is drought-tolerant, it still needs regular watering to thrive. The best way to water Blue Oat Grass is to use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system. These systems deliver water directly to the root zone, minimizing water waste and reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

 

It is essential to water Blue Oat Grass deeply and infrequently. This means that you should water the plant deeply once a week rather than giving it a light watering every day. Deep watering encourages the roots to grow deep into the soil, making the plant more resilient to drought conditions.

Maintenance Protocol:

 

Blue Oat Grass requires minimal maintenance. However, to keep it looking its best, you should follow these maintenance protocols:

​

1. Prune: Blue Oat Grass does not require frequent pruning, but you should remove any dead or damaged foliage. You can also trim back the plant in the spring to promote new growth.

2. Fertilize: Blue Oat Grass does not require fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to encourage healthy growth.

3. Division: Blue Oat Grass can become overcrowded over time. To prevent this, you should divide the plant every three to four years. This will help to maintain the plant's vigor and ensure that it continues to thrive.

 

Blue Oat Grass is an excellent plant for the landscapes of Aurora and Greater Toronto Area. It is drought-tolerant, low maintenance, and has an attractive appearance. To keep the plant healthy, it is essential to water it deeply and infrequently and follow a simple maintenance protocol. With these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of Blue Oat Grass in your landscape for years to come.